Kathleen Juneau

Kathleen "Ginger, Kit, Kitty" Juneau

11/09/1933 - 4/10/2025 (91 years)

Stillwater, Minnesota

Kathleen Juneau, lovingly known by many names-Ginger, Kit, and Kitty-passed away peacefully at her home in Stillwater, Minnesota, surrounded by her family. She was 91.

Kathy was born in November 1933 in the coastal town of Dungarvan, County Waterford, Ireland. She grew up with the Atlantic Ocean outside her door and her Catholic church next door, the fourth of eight siblings in a warm and lively Irish household.

Fearless and adventurous, Kathy immigrated to the United States at age 22, sailing aboard the Queen Mary with her best friend Lily. Sponsored by the Cardozo family of St. Paul, she worked as a nanny upon arrival and quickly embraced her new life in America.

A lover of dancing and live music, Kathy could often be found out on the town with Lily, dancing the night away or shopping at Highland Village. It was on one of those magical evenings at the Prom Ballroom in St. Paul where she met her future husband, Charles Juneau.

Together, Kathy and Charles raised three children-Pat, Sue, and Mike. Kathy worked tirelessly throughout her life in many roles: seamstress, housekeeper, nanny, bookbinder, and quality control specialist at Quebecor (formerly Web Publishing). Her determination and work ethic were matched only by her devotion to family. She regularly returned to Ireland, bringing her children to meet their relatives and stay connected to their roots.

Kathy's heart was fullest when surrounded by her loved ones. She was blessed with 14 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren-all of whom live in Minnesota. Her home was a haven where many family members lived or stayed when they needed comfort, guidance, or simply a warm meal. She was a steadfast foundation in the lives of all who knew her.

For most of her life, Kathy resided on the east side of St. Paul and was a devoted member of St. Mary's Catholic Church, where she built lasting friendships and served her community with grace. She was the only one of her siblings to immigrate to America, while the rest remained in Ireland or moved to England. Kathy visited her family overseas as often as she could, including her best friend Lily, who eventually returned to Ireland. Her final trip back was in 2016, and although she missed her loved ones there deeply, she was grateful for the internet and her ability to stay in touch with "the lads."

In 2023, Kathy moved to The Lakes at Stillwater, where she continued to live a life full of joy, laughter, and generosity. Ever the social butterfly, she quickly made friends and became a beloved part of the community. She rarely stayed in her room, instead choosing to participate in nearly every activity with enthusiasm and warmth. Kathy was known for crocheting scarves for her new friends, sharing laughs over her favorite whiskey and 7UP at happy hour, and lighting up every room with her spirited presence. The staff affectionately referred to her as their "little Irish spitfire," a nickname that captured her charm, wit, and boundless energy.

During retirement, Kathy remained active and engaged-attending church, spending time with her family, playing with the Windjammers harmonica band, and chatting with her neighbors. She had a passion for sewing and crocheting, creating countless blankets, scarves, hats, and lovingly mended garments for her children, grandchildren, friends, neighbors, church members, and relatives back home in Ireland. Her hands were always busy, and her heart was always open.

Kathy is survived by her children Patricia (Clifford Hackbarth) Altermatt, Susan (Douglas) Hinrichsen, and Michael (Cynthia) Juneau; her beloved grandchildren Tallie, Nathan, Brandon, Talisha, Angel, Trevor, Coralee, Lauren, Jackie, Gabriel, Marc, Mitchell, Jacob, and Emily; and her 21 great-grandchildren. She also leaves behind many cherished nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends across both the U.S. and Ireland.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Wally Dobinspeck, and her second husband, Charles Juneau; her parents, William and Mary Moylan; her sisters Johanna and Mary; and her brothers Michael, Richard, Patrick, John, and Jed.

Kathy's legacy is one of courage, kindness, laughter, faith, and unconditional love. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the blessing of knowing her.